Description
This book examines the precise nature of fascism as both a system of ideasand a mode of political practice and it looks at the history of organizationsand parties loyal to this particular creed in Britain. It is a critical examinationof the relative utility of the various theories that have attempted to explain thefascist phenomenon, identifying weaknesses in conventional interpretations.Hayes re-asserts the value of Marxism as an analytic mechanism capable ofevaluating the experience of fascism and seeks to identify how, and underwhat circumstances fascism might re-emerge. Written in a concise andaccessible style by an academic who played an active role in anti-fascistpolitics in Britain, The Ideology of Fascism and the Far Right in Britain willbe of considerable value to anyone seeking a clearer understanding offascism and/or, crucially, how best to resist it.
Endorsements"Dangerous right-wing figures and parties, which appear somewhat bizarreor marginal or unelectable at one period, can assume enormous significanceand power under changing circumstances. This is particularly so at times ofeconomic and or state crisis... At a time when the Far Right is gaining groundacross Europe (and Britain is not immune to infection), this book is not onlytimely but is essential reading for those who care about genuine democracy andthe cause of labour."- Tommy McKearney, Former IRA hunger striker and now an organiser with theIndependent Workers Union
"This is a remarkable book. Mark Hayes combines meticulous research andpassionate commitment as he charts the ideological genesis and politicaltrajectory of... [the] fascist heritage of the far right in Britain."- Jim Slaven, James Connolly Society, Scotland
"Tautly written and buttressed by forensic research this book is a timelyreminder [that]... fascism red in tooth and claw never begins with the midnightknock and the concentration camp. It just ends with them. Read the book andgauge for yourself how far we have already travelled on that journey."- Gary' O'Shea, founding member, Anti-Fascist Action